Security tightened in Maoist-affected areas

Visakhapatnam, Oct 23 (UNI) Police today sounded a high alert in three north coastal districts and stepped up vigil in the Andhra-Orissa border in the wake of the murder of DIG Jasiwindhra Singh at Rayagada district in Padhamapuram village in Orissa, allegedly by the Maoists.

Police said here in a review meeting that the officials would be ensured safety against Maoists and additional greyhounds personnel be deployed Combing operation had been intensified in the Puttakota forest area in the district.

Vehicles were being checked and constant efforts were on to monitor the Maoists' movements in the district.

In Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts, vigil had been intensified in the Maoists' areas and the security had been tightened, police added.

Police denied the local television reports that the Maoist leader Sudhakar was in policy custody.

UNI BSR KD HT1830